Liverpool are facing a complex challenge in bolstering their central defense this summer, with concerns mounting over the long-term options available to Arne Slot. While the arrival of Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes and the anticipated return of Giovanni Leoni from injury offer some relief, the need for a proven, senior centre-back remains acute, particularly given Virgil van Dijk’s age and the injury concerns surrounding Joe Gomez and the expiring contract of Ibrahima Konate.
The club is now revisiting a previously considered target: Charlie Cresswell, currently playing for Toulouse. Interest in Cresswell first surfaced during last summer’s transfer window, but a move never materialized. Now, with the defensive situation becoming more pressing, Liverpool are reportedly preparing a bid for the 23-year-old.
Reports from French outlet Sport.fr on January 4, 2026, indicated Liverpool’s renewed interest, noting that Newcastle United were also monitoring the player. Earlier in the winter transfer window, West Ham United identified Cresswell as their primary centre-back target, but ultimately signed Axel Disasi on loan from Chelsea instead, leaving the door open for other suitors.
The competition for Cresswell’s signature is fierce. Sports Boom reports that Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham, Chelsea, and Brighton and Hove Albion are also in the mix. Further complicating matters, interest extends beyond the Premier League, with Crystal Palace, Borussia Dortmund, and Wolfsburg all reportedly considering a move for the defender.
Liverpool are prepared to table a bid exceeding €30 million (£26.1m, $35.6m) in an attempt to persuade Toulouse to part with Cresswell. This figure reflects the player’s increased value since joining the French club from Leeds United in the summer of 2024 for a significantly lower fee of just £3.8 million (€4.3m, $5.2m).
Cresswell’s development since leaving Leeds has been notable. Despite limited first-team opportunities at Elland Road – just 14 appearances – he has become a regular for Toulouse, making 56 appearances and contributing seven goals and four assists. This consistent playing time has also earned him regular call-ups to the England U21 squad, further enhancing his profile.
The pursuit of Cresswell isn’t Liverpool’s only move in the central defense market. The club is also reportedly interested in Micky van de Ven of Tottenham Hotspur, although the Dutch defender is currently in talks over a new contract with Spurs. The possibility of luring Van de Ven away from a rival club represents a significant challenge, but the allure of playing for the defending Premier League champions could prove decisive.
Further options being explored include Joel Ordonez of Club Brugge and Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan. Bastoni, in particular, is considered a high-quality target, and is reportedly open to a move away from Italy. Liverpool’s interest in multiple centre-backs underscores the urgency of addressing the defensive vulnerabilities within the squad.
Beyond defensive reinforcements, Liverpool are also active in the midfield market. AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit is a target, but faces competition from Real Madrid, who are reportedly determined to secure his signature. The club is also monitoring potential outgoings, with reports suggesting that Mohamed Salah is in discussions with a Saudi Pro League club regarding a potential move in the summer of 2026, though a new Saudi powerhouse has also emerged as a potential destination.
The summer transfer window promises to be a busy one for Liverpool, as they seek to solidify their position as a dominant force in English and European football. Addressing the central defensive issues will be paramount, and Charlie Cresswell represents a potentially shrewd acquisition – a player the club could have secured for a fraction of the current price just two years ago.
